Volunteer of the Month: Kendra Williams, Como Community Center

Volunteer of the Month: Kendra Williams, Como Community Center

Published on September 30, 2025

First off, please tell us a little about yourself.

I am a fifth-generation resident of Lake Como, and I have always had a strong love for my community. In 2021, I started the Lake Como Juneteenth Celebration as an official community event, and that same year I founded my nonprofit, Richelle's Heart, in memory of my mother. Since then, I have been dedicated to uplifting and serving the people of Lake Como through programs, events and partnerships with other nonprofits.

How long have you been volunteering at Como Community Center?

I have been officially volunteering at the Como Community Center for about two to three years. Even before that, I spent a lot of time there because my nieces and nephews were active in the after-school program and youth sports, so it became a natural extension of my life.

What inspired you to start volunteering there?

The Como Community Center is the heart of our neighborhood. It's a place where children, families and seniors can gather, feel safe and connect with others. Seeing my nieces and nephews thrive there showed me that I could use my time and energy to help mentor other children and families in the community. I was inspired to step in because I wanted to be a positive role model, not just to my family but to all the youth in our neighborhood.

What's your favorite part of volunteering?

My favorite part of volunteering is simply being able to show up and support people in whatever way is needed. Sometimes it's serving meals at the Como Mobile Food Pantry, sometimes it's planning an event like the Jingle and Mingle and sometimes it's just listening and encouraging. I love knowing that even the smallest effort can make someone feel seen and supported.

What does a typical volunteer shift look like for you?

For me, volunteerism isn't just a shift, it's a lifestyle. Officially, my time at the center might involve helping with events like the Back-to-School Fair, the Halloween Fall Festival or the Mother's Day Luncheon. But outside the center, no matter where I am, if I run into a youth, a parent or a senior, I see it as another opportunity to pour into them and encourage them. Being a volunteer doesn't stop when I walk out the doors of the center.

Describe a favorite memory or moment from your time at Como Community Center.

One of my favorite moments is becoming what I call an "auntie" to the cheerleaders at the community center. Even though I don't have children of my own, many of the girls adopted me as family. That experience showed me the power of presence, how simply being there, encouraging and showing love can leave a lasting mark on a young person's life.

What keeps you motivated to continue your volunteer mission?

I am motivated by the people themselves. Every child, teen or senior that I meet reminds me why this work matters. Knowing that I can make even a small difference in someone's day keeps me going. I also think about the generations before me who poured into our community, and I feel it's my responsibility to continue their work and leave something better for the generations coming after us.

How has your volunteer work impacted your life or perspective?

Volunteering at the Como Community Center has deepened my sense of purpose. It has shown me that community service is not just about giving - it's about receiving, too. I've learned so much about resilience, hope and joy from the people I serve. It has made me more patient, more understanding and more committed to being a lifelong learner and leader in my community. There are moments when it may seem tough, but I know it's always worth it in the end.

What would you say to someone who is considering volunteering for the City of Fort Worth?

I would tell them to absolutely do it. Volunteering gives you a chance to be a positive figure in someone's life and to make a real difference in your city. You'll not only impact the lives of others, but you'll also discover new strengths in yourself. It's one of the most rewarding ways to give back and grow at the same time.

What do you enjoy doing when you're not volunteering?

When I'm not volunteering, I enjoy spending time with my family, especially my nieces and nephews, who keep me busy and entertained. I also love planning events, creating new projects and finding ways to bring people together. Being creative and building new ideas is something that brings me a lot of joy.

Is there anything else you'd like to add?

I am grateful to be part of the Como Community Center and to be a product of the Lake Como community. This neighborhood has a rich history, filled with leaders who paved the way and built a strong foundation of pride and resilience. I carry that legacy with me every time I volunteer, and it motivates me to give back so that future generations can continue to be proud of where they come from. Lake Como is more than just a place; it's family, it's history and it's home.

Visit the volunteer website today to browse our programs and learn how you can invest in your community and invest in yourself!

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• Volunteers
• District 6